The Graveyard Book volume 2 by Neil Gaiman

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Graphic adaptation by P. Craig Russell. Ill. by David Lafuente, P. Craig Russell, Scott Hampton, Kevin Nowlan, Galen Showman. Bloomsbury, 2014. ISBN 9781408859001
(Age:Upper primary+) Volume 2 of the graphic version of The Graveyard Bookfollows on from the first, again showcasing the work of a different illustrator for each chapter. The central character, Bod has grown up within the safety and confines of the graveyard away from the sinister 'Jack' who murdered his family. Now as he grows older he questions his restricted life and ventures outside to try and live like a normal human being. Not surprisingly he finds it difficult to fit in and the first chapter, illustrated by David Lafuente, vividly involves us in Bod's intervention in the actions of a pair of school bullies. The powerful graphics enhance the action and make the supernatural sequences stand out. The change of style in the next two chapters to a more realistic form of illustration, adjusts our perspective and the story settles down to resolve the mystery of the killer 'Jack' and tie up the loose ends of the story.
Like the first volume, this will be welcomed by fans of graphic novels, Gaiman and The Graveyard Book but it also is engaging enough to stand alone and find a wide readership from upper primary onwards.
Sue Speck

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